Getting backpacks right

Quite literally we are talking about backs in this Back Talk column — specifically, about children’s backs, and their school backpacks.  

The backpack might seem like the least important thing for a parent to worry about in the hectic days before school starts, but  keep in mind that even very young children wear their packs every day, nine months a year.

And when those backpacks fit incorrectly, it can add pressure to a child’s neck, shoulders and back.

Here are some tips to prevent neck and back pain/strain.

• Choose a lightweight material. You might have to replace it sooner but it won’t add to your child’s already heavy load.

• Wide padded shoulder straps  help distribute the weight of the pack more evenly.

• Children should carry no more than 10 to 20 percent of their body weight. Their bodies are still developing; muscles, bones and their attachments are only equipped to support a small amount of weight without taxing them.  Would you be comfortable carrying an 80-pound briefcase to work?

For many children, this means working with a parent to figure out which books and supplies need to come home at night, and which ones can remain on campus in a desk or locker.  

• Show them how to pack their bags ergonomically. Heavy items should be closest to their backs. Use multiple compartments so that the load doesn’t sway from side to side.  

• Make sure your children are wearing their backpacks correctly: They should be worn over both shoulders, high on the back (2 inches above the waistline) and have them buckle the waist strap if their pack has one.  

No one is saying that backpacks are going to cause major illnesses or dysfunction in a child. But packs can contribute to future neck and back problems.  

So, check in with your children, ask them if they have any pain and/or numbness in their neck, shoulders, arms, back and/or legs.  Children should not have any pain at any age, it’s just not normal.

If they are experiencing pain,  try a natural alternative: chiropractic.  It can help them adjust their spine and skeleton before any problems become permanent.

The Chiropractic Center of Canaan was established 22 years ago and was recently acquired by Monica S. Nowak, DC, and Peter Markowicz, DC.